Load-velocity relationship in the free-weight horizontal and incline bench press

This study compared (i) the load-velocity relationship in the free-weight horizontal (HBP) vs. incline bench press (IBP) and (ii) the differences between general vs. individual load-velocity equations to estimate the one-repetition maximum (1RM) in the HBP and IBP. Thirty males (26 ± 3 years) performed four sessions: two dedicated to assessing the 1RM in the HBP and IBP, and another two to measure the mean propulsive velocity (MPV) reached against loads of 40-90% 1RM in the HBP and IBP. Individual load-velocity equations estimated the MPV from 30 to 100% 1RM in the HBP and IBP and the 1RM in each exercise. Furthermore, general equations estimated the 1RM in each exercise. The estimated MPV values associated with 30-100% 1RM in the HBP and IBP were compared. The coefficient of variation (CV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) determined the reliability between the actual and estimated 1RM in both exercises. The results showed higher MPV in the HBP than in the IBP from 30 to 80% 1RM (p < 0.001). General and individual equations provided acceptable estimates of the 1RM when using loads from 70 to 90% 1RM in the HBP and IBP (CV < 10% and ICC > 0.80) but not 40-60% 1RM (CV > 10% and ICC < 0.80). This study shows that the load-velocity relationship differs between HBP and IBP, with higher velocities reached in HBP. Furthermore, individual and general equations seem reliable in estimating the 1RM when using relative loads from 70 to 90% 1RM in the HBP and IBP.